Male amphibians, including frogs and toads, have been plagued by feminization, deformity, behavioral abnormalities and sterility. Biologists from the University of Floridainvestigated whether reproductive problems among populations of cane toads ( Bufo marinus) arecaused by poisons from chemicals associated with agriculture. The biologists collected local adult cane toadsfrom more than 20 different locations. Toads were collected from areas close to agriculture, both large-scale and small-scale farms, as well as from suburbs that are nonagricultural areas.Data collected by the biologists suggested a strong correlation between feminization of male toads and agricultural chemicals. Is it accurate to state that the scientists had supported their theory that agricultural chemicals cause deformities?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scientists were indeed testing a hypothesis about the impact of agricultural chemicals on cane toads, not proving or supporting a theory. A hypothesis is a proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation, whereas a theory is a well-substantiated explanation acquired through the scientific method and repeatedly tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation.

Male Amphibians, Including Frogs and Toads, Have Been Plagued by Feminization